Pope Leo XIV Celebrates Mass for Pilgrims at Lourdes Shrine

More than 150,000 pilgrims and faithful gathered at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes on Sunday to attend a Mass officiated by Pope Leo XIV. This event occurred during his Apostolic Journey to France, drawing a diverse crowd from various backgrounds. Among those present were elderly individuals in wheelchairs, children enjoying the day, and volunteers assisting pilgrims in need.

Attendees expressed gratitude and shared personal stories of faith. Annie, a 58-year-old from France, stated, 'I’m here to thank the Holy Father and Heaven for keeping me alive,' referencing her recovery from a serious illness with spiritual help.

Lourdes is known as one of the world's most visited Marian shrines, attracting approximately three million visitors annually. It is particularly famous for its association with reported miraculous healings attributed to visions experienced by Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858.

Cristiane, a Lebanese woman living near Tarbes, explained her strong emotional connection to the shrine. 'I come here every week to the Grotto... The Pope is our guide, our saviour and our hope,' she said, appreciating the Pope's focus on Lebanon amid ongoing conflict there.

The Pope’s visit was marked by the constant presence of volunteers, who help manage the large number of attendees. Raquel, a volunteer from Miami, expressed her enthusiasm for both aiding the visitors and witnessing the Pope. 'It gives me great joy,' she remarked about her experience.

Some volunteers, like Wilma from Brazil, made significant contributions to the event, including crafting thousands of rosaries for distribution. She reflected on the strong sense of community at Lourdes, saying, 'There’s only one language—it’s the language of God—because we all believe.'

Lourdes continues to be regarded as a centre of healing, reflecting the deep faith and commitment many have found there. Participants left the Mass with renewed spirits, underscoring the shrine’s significance in their spiritual journeys.